With March rapidly approaching, the Week 17 AP Top 25 reflects a shifting national landscape defined by superstar freshmen, key injuries, and rising contenders. Duke has claimed the No. 1 spot behind elite talent, while the Big 12 and Big Ten continue to dominate the rankings. Meanwhile, injury storylines surrounding Kansas star Darryn Peterson, North Carolina’s Caleb Wilson, and BYU guard Richie Saunders are reshaping expectations for several contenders. Every team now enters the most important stretch of the season with seeding — and championship hopes — on the line.
1. Duke Blue Devils (25–2)
Duke looks like the most complete team in college basketball behind freshman phenom Cameron Boozer. His scoring, rebounding, and defensive versatility have elevated Duke to the top, and they’ve consistently dominated both ends of the floor.
2. Arizona Wildcats (25–2)
Arizona continues to thrive behind elite guard Jaden Bradley, who controls the tempo and creates scoring opportunities. The Wildcats’ offensive efficiency and experience make them a legitimate national title threat.
3. Michigan Wolverines (25–2)
Michigan remains firmly in the title race thanks to its balance and star power. The Wolverines’ size, shot-making, and consistency make them one of the most dangerous teams in the country.
4. Iowa State Cyclones (23–4)
Iowa State continues to impose its physical identity behind Milan Momcilovic and Tamin Lipsey. Their defense and ability to execute late have made them one of the Big 12’s toughest teams.
5. Houston Cougars (23–4)
Houston remains elite defensively, led by standout guard Kingston Flemings. His scoring and playmaking have been crucial in keeping the Cougars among the nation’s best.
6. UConn Huskies (25–3)
UConn continues to win behind its depth and championship pedigree. Their experience and defensive discipline make them a serious March threat.
7. Florida Gators (21–6)
Florida is surging behind forward Thomas Haugh, whose inside presence anchors their offense. The Gators’ athleticism gives them one of the highest ceilings in the SEC.
8. Purdue Boilermakers (22–5)
Purdue continues to rely on discipline and execution. Their ability to control pace and limit mistakes keeps them among the nation’s elite.
9. Gonzaga Bulldogs (27–2)
Gonzaga’s offensive efficiency continues to overwhelm opponents. Their veteran leadership makes them dangerous in any postseason matchup.
10. Illinois Fighting Illini (22–6)
Illinois is led by freshman guard Darius Acuff Jr., whose scoring explosiveness gives the Illini a dynamic offensive weapon.
11. Virginia Cavaliers (24–3)
Virginia’s defensive identity continues to define its success. Their ability to frustrate opponents keeps them firmly in the Top 15.
12. Nebraska Cornhuskers (23–4)
Nebraska’s rise continues behind strong guard play and consistent execution. Their confidence continues to grow.
13. Michigan State Spartans (22–5)
Michigan State’s toughness and defensive intensity make them a difficult matchup. They continue to climb as March approaches.
14. Kansas Jayhawks (20–7)
Kansas remains one of the most fascinating teams in the country due to freshman star Darryn Peterson. Peterson averages nearly 20 points per game but has repeatedly missed key stretches and late moments due to cramping and injury issues, raising concerns about Kansas’ ceiling.
15. St. John’s Red Storm (22–5)
St. John’s has emerged as a serious contender behind forward Zuby Ejiofor. His dominance inside has fueled their breakout season.
16. Texas Tech Red Raiders (20–7)
Texas Tech faces adversity after losing JT Toppin for the season with a torn ACL. His absence significantly lowers their championship upside.
17. Alabama Crimson Tide (20–7)
Alabama continues to climb behind Keaton Wagler, whose scoring has helped power their offense during a strong recent stretch.
18. North Carolina Tar Heels (21–6)
North Carolina faces uncertainty with freshman Caleb Wilson currently injured. His absence removes one of their most important offensive weapons.
19. BYU Cougars (20–7)
BYU is led by superstar freshman AJ Dybantsa, who has emerged as one of the best players in college basketball. His scoring ability keeps BYU competitive despite losing guard Richie Saunders for the season.
20. Arkansas Razorbacks (20–7)
Arkansas remains dangerous behind forward Yaxel Lendeborg, whose versatility makes him one of the most impactful players in the SEC.
21. Miami (OH) RedHawks (27–0)
Miami (OH) continues its incredible undefeated season. Their consistency and confidence remain impressive.
22. Tennessee Volunteers (20–7)
Tennessee continues to climb behind freshman Nate Ament, whose versatility and scoring ability give the Vols a rising star.
23. Saint Louis Billikens (25–2)
Saint Louis continues to dominate with strong defense and efficient offense. Their record speaks for itself.
24. Louisville Cardinals (20–7)
Louisville has quietly put together an impressive season behind strong guard play and improved defense. Their balance makes them dangerous heading into March.
25. Vanderbilt Commodores (21–6)
Vanderbilt rounds out the poll behind point guard Silas Demary Jr., who leads the team in assists and controls their offensive flow. His leadership has been critical to their success.
Final Take
Duke’s rise to No. 1 signals a shift in the national title race, but the gap between contenders remains small. Freshmen like Cameron Boozer, AJ Dybantsa, Nate Ament, and Darryn Peterson are defining this season — while injuries to Caleb Wilson, Richie Saunders, and JT Toppin have created new uncertainty.
With March approaching, the pressure is only increasing. And chaos is coming.
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